Oman isn’t just a country, it’s an adventure waiting to unfold. From sun-drenched deserts to emerald wadis, majestic forts to coastal wonders, this Arabian gem offers a perfect mix of serenity and thrill. If you’re searching for top places to go in Oman, whether for a relaxing family escape or an off-road road trip, this Oman travel guide will take you through the most unforgettable spots.
Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or just looking for fun things to do, these Oman visiting places are a treasure trove of beauty and culture.
Muscat
The capital city of Oman, Muscat, is a blend of tradition, elegance, and quiet beauty. Unlike other bustling capitals, Muscat moves at its own peaceful pace. Start your journey at the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, a masterpiece of Islamic architecture complete with the world’s second-largest hand-woven carpet and an awe-inspiring chandelier.
Wander along the Muttrah Corniche, where the sea hugs the city and traditional wooden dhows bob along the harbor. Explore Muttrah Souq, one of the oldest markets in the Arab world, packed with frankincense, antique silver, Omani daggers, and colorful textiles. The white-washed buildings, sea-facing forts, and palm-lined streets give Muscat a timeless charm.
Looking for more things to do in Muscat? Don’t miss Qurum Beach, the elegant Royal Opera House, or Al Alam Palace. Muscat’s blend of heritage and modernity makes it one of the most popular tourist destinations in Oman.
Wadi Shab
Located about two hours from Muscat, Wadi Shab is among Oman’s best places to visit. To get there, you’ll take a short boat ride across a shallow river, then begin a scenic hike through rocky gorges and palm groves.
The real magic happens when you reach the series of crystal-clear pools nestled between canyon walls. Here, you can swim, climb, and explore, including a secret cave that houses a stunning waterfall. The journey requires a bit of effort, but every step rewards you with views that feel untouched and sacred.
Pack your swimsuit, wear hiking shoes, and bring a waterproof bag, you’ll want to dive in the moment you see the water.
Nizwa
Nizwa A highlight in every Oman travel guide. It’s one of the most important historical cities in the country and is often called the cultural capital of Oman. It’s one of those famous Omani places where every stone seems to whisper stories from the past. The city’s centerpiece, Nizwa Fort, was built in the 17th century and features a massive round tower with panoramic views of the surrounding date plantations and mountains.
Right next to the fort is Nizwa Souq, where you can shop for handcrafted silver, pottery, spices, halwa, and more. If you’re lucky, you might catch the traditional Friday goat market, a chaotic, fascinating event where livestock is auctioned off in true Omani style.
Nizwa is a must for heritage tourism, and just outside, you’ll find other gems like Bahla Fort (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), the magical Jabrin Castle, and ancient falaj water systems still in use today.
Wahiba Sands
The Wahiba Sands, also known as Sharqiya Sands, is one of the most iconic places to visit in Oman for desert adventure and cultural immersion. Covering thousands of square kilometers, this sea of sand is home to ever-shifting dunes that glow gold at sunrise and burn orange at sunset. It’s one of the most iconic places to visit in Oman if you’re looking to experience traditional Bedouin hospitality.
Many local families still live here, raising camels and goats in desert camps. You can take a 4×4 dune-bashing ride, try sandboarding, ride a camel, or simply lie back at night and admire a sky bursting with stars. Spend the night in a desert camp with traditional Omani meals and storytelling around the fire, an experience that stays with you forever.
Jebel Akhdar
Part of the Al Hajar Mountain range, Jebel Akhdar, or “Green Mountain,” is a refreshing high-altitude escape. At over 2,000 meters above sea level, this area is surprisingly cool, even during the peak of summer. Famous for its terraced rose gardens and pomegranate orchards, Jebel Akhdar is also home to charming villages and ancient hiking trails.
Take the scenic route through Saiq Plateau, where you can enjoy dramatic canyon views and visit abandoned mountain settlements. During the spring bloom, the air fills with the fragrance of Damask roses, which are harvested to produce pure Omani rosewater.
It’s a tranquil and photogenic escape; An underrated but stunning stop for those seeking nature-based things to do in Oman.
Misfat Al Abriyeen
Nestled above Al Hamra, the picturesque village of Misfat Al Abriyeen is like something out of a storybook. With mud-brick houses perched on steep terraces and narrow lanes shaded by banana and date palms, it’s one of the most charming and authentic tourist places in Oman.
The village is powered by ancient falaj irrigation channels, and you can walk along them on scenic trails with sweeping valley views. Locals run small guesthouses where you can enjoy Omani meals, Arabic coffee, and peace like no other. It’s one of the most unique Oman places to visit for an authentic village experience.
Daymaniyat Islands
If you’re wondering where to find the best places to visit in Oman for marine life, the Daymaniyat Islands are your answer. Located just off the coast of Muscat, this chain of uninhabited islands is a protected marine reserve with some of the clearest waters in the region.
The islands are famous for their coral reefs, sea turtles, and exotic fish. Whether you’re snorkeling or scuba diving, the experience is unforgettable. Many tours also offer dolphin-watching opportunities along the way. Since visitor numbers are limited to protect the ecosystem, the environment here remains pristine.
Love seaside vibes? Make sure to check out Beachside Brunch & Sunset Cafés in Oman.
Sur & Ras Al Jinz
The town of Sur is a scenic coastal hub with a rich maritime history. It was once a key port for trade with East Africa and India, and you can still see traditional dhow boats being built by hand in its historic shipyards. The town’s lighthouse, sea fort, and beautiful beaches make it a peaceful stop along Oman’s coast.
Just 45 minutes from Sur, Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve offers a once-in-a-lifetime chance to see green turtles nesting or hatching in the wild. Tours happen at night or early morning and are guided by experts to ensure minimal disturbance. This area is a favorite place to visit in Oman with family and wildlife lovers.
Al Hoota Cave
Near the town of Al Hamra, Al Hoota Cave invites you into Oman’s underground world. This natural limestone cave stretches for over 4.5 kilometers (though only a part is open to the public), showcasing massive stalactites and stalagmites, underground lakes, and even rare blind cavefish.
Inside, a guided tour takes you through well-lit walkways, revealing the cave’s eerie beauty. Outside, there’s a geological museum and interactive exhibits that explain how these formations developed over millions of years. It’s both educational and awe-inspiring, especially for kids.
Bimmah Sinkhole
Along the coastal highway between Muscat and Sur lies the surreal Bimmah Sinkhole, a collapsed limestone cavity filled with bright turquoise water. Locals believe it was formed by a meteorite, and while science leans toward erosion, there’s no denying its otherworldly beauty.
It’s free to visit and makes for a perfect stop during a road trip. You can swim, relax, and snap envy-inducing photos. With picnic areas and restrooms nearby, it’s one of the easiest yet most stunning Oman tourist places to visit.
Salalah
Tucked away in the Dhofar region in the far south of the country, Salalah flips every desert stereotype upside down. During the Khareef season (June to September), monsoon winds transform the landscape into a lush, misty paradise, with rolling green hills, gushing waterfalls, and cool air that feels more like Sri Lanka than the Arabian Peninsula.
Visit Wadi Darbat, where you’ll find rivers, natural pools, and even paddle boats. Drive to Al Mughsail Beach, a wild stretch of coastline known for its dramatic cliffs and blowholes that shoot seawater into the air. The region is also home to ancient frankincense trees and historical landmarks tied to the incense trade.
Salalah is one of the most beautiful and among top places to visit in Oman with family, especially during summer when the rest of the country is warm and dry.
Taqah and Mirbat
Located east of Salalah, the coastal villages of Taqah and Mirbat are quiet, scenic, and rich in historical significance. Taqah is home to Taqah Castle, a restored fort that offers insight into Dhofari architecture and local life. The views from the top overlook beaches where fishermen still cast their nets the old-fashioned way.
Mirbat, once a major port for the frankincense trade, still holds on to its 19th-century charm. The town is dotted with old merchant houses and coastal forts, and the nearby mountains create a dramatic backdrop to its white-sand beaches.
If you’re looking to plan the perfect getaway, don’t miss our Explore Oman: A Complete Travel Itinerary with Must-Visit Places & Family-Friendly Hotels.
